Larger than Toyota's RAV4 and smaller (barely) than the truck-based
4Runner, the Toyota Highlander's hushed ride and creature comforts
represent where the SUV market is and should be heading.

OUTSIDE - Highlander's two-box shape isn't radical. Its nose has
round headlights set behind clear plastic lenses. The grille pushes
forward past the headlights while two horizontal grille slats meet in
the center at the Toyota logo. A pair of larger, round fog lights are
recessed into the front bumper cap, which itself tucks aerodynamically
below and under the front end. Highlander sits lower than many of the
current crop of mid-sized SUV's, a benefit that comes in handy in tight
garages. Short creases run across the hood and down the sides at
waist-level, while optional integrated mud flaps are painted body color.
Everything else is painted as well, save for the black trim surrounding
the windows and the optional modular roof rack. Our Highlander came
fitted with a Limited options package that added a rear spoiler, fog
lamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, the roof rack and mudguards.

INSIDE - Toyota has carefully melded a rugged 4x4 exterior look with
the comfortable interior of a car. And, thanks to its Camry platform,
the floorpan is so low, there is virtually no step-up to get inside. The
front bucket seats are wide and soft, but could use a bit of extra
lateral support. The interior layout is somewhat distinct in that the
shifter is placed in a short console that is attached to the base of the
dashboard. Between the front seats is open - a handy absence that makes
for a good deal of extra space. Cargo room is excellent with a rear
bench seat that folds forward to form a flat load floor. Up to 81 cubic
feet of cargo space is available and when the front buckets are folded
flat with the headrests removed, there is enough space to haul
eight-foot boards. Space in back is ok for three, with ample head and
legroom, while those in back can recline their seats in three positions.

ON THE ROAD - There are two engines available on the Highlander. A
2.4-liter four cylinder produces 155 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque,
though most will be fitted with a 220-horse 3.0-liter V6. This engine
uses dual overhead camshafts, 24 valves and Toyota's variable valve
timing system. This type of system is commonplace now and it works
flawlessly to provide good power across all rpm ranges. Its 222 lb-ft of
torque gives it sprightly performance off the line, and the ability to
tow up to 3500 pounds when properly equipped. Many Highlanders have been
sold with only front-wheel-drive, but the four wheel-drive version is
the one we prefer. At its heart is a viscous center differential that
splits engine torque between the front and rear axles. If the system
detects wheel slip, it sends power to the wheels with the most grip. No
input is required by its driver, as the system is fully automatic.

BEHIND THE WHEEL - The Highlander lacks the traditional body-on-
frame construction of many of its competitors. This means that it isn't
a go-anywhere, rugged SUV and Toyota doesn't care, as its 4Runner SUV is
perfectly suited to handling rough off-road duties. The low-slung,
Camry-derived unibody floorpan has 7.3 inches ground clearance for the
4WD, so moderately sized rocks and brush can be easily negotiated.
Highlander also uses the same suspension system as the Camry, with
independent MacPherson struts and anti-roll bars designed specifically
for the on-road and light off-road duties Highlander is expected to
perform. Optional traction-enhancing gadgetry includes an electronic
stability control system that detects unwanted vehicle behavior and
interacts with the traction control and anti-lock braking system to keep
it on track. Four-wheel disc brakes are used, as well as a brake assist,
a panic-stop aid.